MOZA FSR2 Formula Wheel: my post-test opinion

In the sim racing formula wheel segment, the MOZA FSR2 is clearly at the top end of the enthusiast/semi-pro market. It's neither an entry-level wheel, nor a simple toy for discovering sim racing. It's a steering wheel designed to race hard, for a long time, with a level of finish and functionality aimed at demanding sim racers.

On paper, it promises a pretty formidable combo: serious construction, single-seater/prototype-oriented ergonomics, info-packed on-board display, full palette of buttons and rotors, all integrated into the MOZA ecosystem. The idea is simple: to offer an F1-style steering wheel that can hold its own against the more expensive references on the market, without sacrificing feel or rigidity.

My angle is twofold: on the one hand, the pure feel of the game (precision, grip reading, comfort over long sessions); on the other, the overall relevance of the product in a modern setup. Does the FSR2 offer real added value compared to a more conventional GT wheel? Does it justify the investment if you drive a lot of F1, LMP or PC single-seaters? And above all, will it keep you wanting to use it on a daily basis, or will it end up sitting on the shelf after the initial "wow" effect?

Design and manufacture of the MOZA FSR2

In hand, the FSR2 immediately conveys an impression of density and seriousness. The chassis is made of metal, with a rigid faceplate, and you can feel that the steering wheel has not been designed to look pretty on a desk. The structure doesn't flinch, even under load on a fairly torquey Direct Drive base. Overall rigidity is very good: no perceptible flex in the grips or steering wheel body.

The grips are covered with a material that combines grip and comfort. This is clearly a "racing" feel, with a texture that's grippy enough to ride without gloves, yet pleasant enough for long sessions. The molding is clean, with no annoying burrs. In the hand, the shape is typical of a single-seater: fairly closed grips, allowing the hands to be locked in place when riding hard. You get the impression that it's designed for turning at slight angles, not for rallying.

The big visual highlight, of course, is the central screen. It's well integrated, the edges are contained and the whole is harmonious. You don't get the impression that the screen has been glued on at the last moment, but that it's actually part of the design. The interface is legible, with sufficient contrast to remain usable in most light conditions.

Buttons and rotary controls have a decent feel, with a clear click. Some might like a little more resistance on the encoders, but they're still precise. The rear paddles - clutch and shift - are metal, with a short stroke and dry return. Noise is present, especially in a quiet environment: it's not deafening, but it's not discreet either.

Compared to other formula flywheels on the market, the FSR2 is well positioned: we're talking about a serious level of finish, close to what you'd expect from an advanced simracer-oriented product. The only possible slight disappointment comes if you're expecting absolute "luxury": some finishes remain industrial, without falling into premium craftsmanship. But at this price, the compromise seems coherent.

Settings, customization and compatibility

As far as settings are concerned, the FSR2 integrates into the MOZA ecosystem, with in-house PC software. The interface is pretty straightforward: each button is detected, rotary controls are assignable, and the screen lets you choose different layouts. Critical functions can be adjusted directly, without plunging into endless menus. For someone who has already used advanced sim racing equipment, it's easy to get the hang of.

The supplied presets help you get started, but it's by fine-tuning yourself that you really get the most out of the steering wheel. The fact that there are so many buttons and knobs means that most of the key settings are on the front panel: mixture, brake bias, traction control, engine mapping... You end up with a car that can be entirely controlled from the steering wheel, just like the real thing. The learning curve comes mainly from memorization: at first, you have to look for the right button, then it becomes almost automatic.

The on-board display adds an interesting level of personalization. Essential information can be displayed: delta, remaining revs, temperature, fuel, etc. The important thing is that the display remains legible at a glance. You end up building your own preferred layout for different games: one more F1-oriented, another for endurance, for example.

On the PC, compatibility is FSR2's natural playground. All the major modern sim racing titles are supported, and mapping is done without any particular drama. On consoles, the question becomes more complicated, since everything depends on the compatibility of the MOZA base used and platform restrictions. Clearly, this steering wheel is primarily aimed at PC users integrated into the MOZA ecosystem. If you're looking for a multi-brand or console-specific wheel, this won't be the easiest choice.

The FSR2 fits easily into a MOZA setup: Direct Drive chainstays, pedals, shifters and in-house cockpits can all be fitted without tinkering. In terms of upgradeability, it's more a point of arrival than a simple point of entry. It's a steering wheel you can keep for a long time, even if you change base within the same brand or move up in power range. It's not a transition wheel, but rather a central element in a single-seater/prototype-oriented setup.

MOZA FSR2 in play: feel and behavior

The heart of the matter is what the steering wheel transmits on the track. Even if a steering wheel doesn't generate torque itself, its rigidity, shape and the quality of its controls directly influence the perception of force feedback. With the FSR2, the first striking sensation is precision. Small corrections are immediate, and the hand/car linkage is very direct. You can really feel what the front of the car is doing.

In fast corners, the stiffness of the steering wheel makes all the difference. There's no parasitic flex to soften or smooth feedback. When the Direct Drive base sends out a peak of torque because the front end stalls slightly, the steering wheel returns it as it is. You quickly understand where the grip limit is. This is exactly what you'd expect from a formula steering wheel: a very clear reading of the car, especially in the downforce phases.

Grip reading is particularly good on modern single-seaters: you can feel the micro-loss of grip at the front, the moment when the tire "slips" before picking up again. On a softer or less rigid steering wheel, these nuances tend to be absorbed. Here, it's all there. For those coming from an entry-level belt-driven steering wheel, the gain in legibility is obvious. You'll know sooner if you're overloading the front end, and you'll be able to correct it sooner.

On vibrators, the FSR2 returns a clean, clear signal. Well-marked track edges are easy to read: you can feel if you're cutting a little too much, or if you're biting the high vibrator. The steering wheel doesn't feel like it's twisting or filtering mechanically, which is essential for aggressive driving. You can put the car right up to the track limit, wheel after wheel, without feeling like you're in the dark.

During long sessions, one important point stands out: the comfort of the grip. The handles remain pleasant, even when you're doing relay after relay. The shape fits well in the hand, and the contact zones don't generate excessive fatigue. The load comes more from the base torque than from the steering wheel itself. For several hours' driving, this is not a detail. A poorly designed formula steering wheel quickly becomes a pain; here, you can stay focused on driving.

Quick corrections - especially when exiting slow bends, when the rear end wants to go ahead - are easy to manage. As the steering wheel is compact and easy to read, you react more quickly. The combination of "low inertia + good rigidity" gives very pleasant control over rear-end shifts. This is where the difference with a more massive or less rigid steering wheel comes into play, where you tend to "overcorrect" or react a fraction of a second too late.

Compared with a flywheel mounted on a less powerful base, the FSR2 shines above all in the clarity of its message. You could almost say that the steering wheel "cleans" the disturbances, letting through what is useful. With a more powerful base than that used by most simracers, the steering wheel follows without batting an eyelid: it takes the load without deforming, which is reassuring for durability.

In terms of overall immersion, the combination of screen + LEDs + buttons within easy reach is a real plus. You can concentrate on the track, limit screen overlays, and stay in the bubble. You manage the car from the steering wheel, keep an eye on the delta, and keep your hands on the grips. For driving in near-competitive conditions, this is a real gain. You feel in "race mode", not "video game mode".

Overall, the FSR2 is the perfect complement to a mid- to high-end Direct Drive base. On a less powerful base, you'll already benefit from its rigidity and precision, but you'll feel that it gives more as the torque increases. It's a flywheel that lives better with a strong Direct Drive than with a limited base.

Who's it for? Strengths and limitations of the MOZA FSR2

The ideal profile for this steering wheel is the intermediate to advanced simracer, mainly on PC, who drives mainly F1, LMP, Formula or modern single-seaters. Someone who already has a Direct Drive base or plans to buy one, and who wants a complete formula wheel, ready for serious racing. For a total beginner, the investment may be a little too ambitious, unless budget is not an issue and the aim is to go straight to a performance-oriented setup.

What we appreciate most is its rigidity and solid feel. You don't have to be afraid to push hard, the steering wheel takes it in its stride. Then there's the comprehensive configuration of buttons + rotors + paddles, which means you have everything at your fingertips: car management, strategy, fuel, everything can be controlled from the front. Last but not least, the integrated screen, well exploited, really changes the experience: no need to overload the game display, you can read the essentials directly on the steering wheel.

On the other hand, several points need to be qualified. The first is the very typical shape: a formula steering wheel isn't ideal for everything. For rallying, drifting or even some highly rotating GT cars, it's not the most pleasant format. Secondly, the MOZA ecosystem is more natural on PC than on console; if you play mainly on console, you'll need to check the overall compatibility of the base before committing yourself. Finally, the price clearly places the FSR2 in the serious investment category: you're paying for the technology and the finish, but it remains a well-considered purchase, not an entry-level whim.

In terms of perceived value, the question is simple: if you regularly exploit its strengths - intensive formula driving, long stints, line racing, setup work - the steering wheel justifies its price. If you spend 80 % of your time in GT, road or drift, you risk under-utilizing its strengths and paying for a concept that doesn't really match your riding style.

Verdict: is the MOZA FSR2 worth it?

In a modern sim racing setup, the FSR2 is clearly a must-have for anyone who loves single-seaters and prototypes. It provides a complete, precise and serious driving interface, which really enhances a high-level Direct Drive base. It's a steering wheel that structures a setup, not a simple accessory.

On the market, it's positioned in the accessible premium segment: higher than a "plastic-fantastic" or entry-level steering wheel, but below some ultra-exclusive monsters. It's aimed at the simracer enthusiast, ready to invest in a high-performance tool, without necessarily falling into the collector's delirium.

I'd clearly recommend it to those who drive mainly F1, LMP, modern single-seaters, on PC, with a MOZA base or the intention of entering this ecosystem. For an occasional gamer, for mainly console use, or for someone who alternates a lot between rally / drift / open road, I'd recommend a more versatile GT or classic round steering wheel.

If you're looking for a rigid, precise formula steering wheel with integrated screen and a real feel of serious hardware to accompany a Direct Drive base, this product can clearly make the difference in your setup.